Supreme Court nominee Justice Senyo Dzamefe has observed that individuals standing trial appear more at ease before regional tribunals than in traditional courtrooms.

Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on June 16, 2025, Justice Dzamefe explained that the composition of the tribunals—typically two non-lawyer members and one judge—creates a less intimidating environment for defendants.

Responding to a question from Okaikwei Central MP, Patrick Yaw Boamah, on whether he would support the re-establishment of tribunals to assist in justice delivery, Justice Dzamefe responded affirmatively but sought to correct what he described as a misconception.

“That’s exactly what I would do, but unfortunately, it’s a wrong perception. From my experience, people are more relaxed when they appear before the tribunals because the panel is made up of three—two ordinary citizens and a judge who is a lawyer,” he said.

Justice Dzamefe also dismissed concerns that tribunal members without legal backgrounds could be intimidated or manipulated by lawyers.

“Don’t underrate those people. They may not know the technical legal terms, but they possess the wisdom needed to understand every case. You can’t bully them,” he added.